For centuries, humanity has searched for the secret to a long, happy life. We've tried wellness trends, self-help books, expensive supplements and, more recently, staring at our phones while watching productivity gurus explain how to optimise our mornings.
But the answer may have been hiding in plain sight all along – somewhere between a plate of homemade pasta and a leisurely afternoon stroll in Sardinia, Italy.
The Mediterranean island is famous for its remarkable number of centenarians, many of whom credit their longevity to a simple lifestyle centred on family, community, good food and daily movement. Enter the internet's latest obsession: “Nonnamaxxing”.
Named after Italian nonne (grandmothers), the TikTok trend encourages people to channel the wisdom of Italian grandmothers by slowing down and embracing life's simple pleasures. Think walking everywhere instead of driving, cooking meals from scratch, sharing food with loved ones and spending less time doomscrolling and more time actually talking to people.
Unlike many viral wellness crazes, Nonnamaxxing doesn't require expensive equipment, a complicated morning routine or a subscription fee. The only real challenge may be resisting the urge to turn a five-minute walk to the shops into a competitive sport.
In short, Nonnamaxxing is about living a little more like an Italian grandmother – and honestly, they seem to be onto something.